Camp Twitch 2020

Camp Twitch is an annual event that the Tourette's Association NZ hosts for young people living with the paediatric, neurological disorder Tourette Syndrome.

Tourette Syndrome is an under-diagnosed and misunderstood disorder. Some people think it's a bit of a joke given that popular media portrays it to be swearing.

But it is so much more than that - the vocal and motor tics occur 24/7. The tics cause physical pain, interrupt sleep, attract bullying and can prevent the young person from attending school, playing sport, taking part in social activities.

Life with Tourette Syndrome is incredibly lonely and Camp Twitch is the highlight of the year for these kids.

At Camp the kids are free to be themselves - no one judges them when they tic.....in fact it is the norm to tic so the kids are encouraged to "tic loud and tic proud". Having Tourette Syndrome is celebrated at Camp Twitch with events like The OlympTICS - a twist on events like horse riding, swimming and athletics and an annual talent show.

Covid-19 was particularly hard on a number of our young people, as many live with associate disorders like OCD, ADHD, anxiety and depression.

This year we want to try and help as many families as possible attend Camp Twitch 2020 at the Forest Lakes Camp and Conference Centre in Otaki.